The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word PADDLED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
P
A
D
D
L
E
D
Buddy explains!

The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does PADDLED mean?
PADDLED verb- To propel something through water with a paddle, oar, hands, etc.
- To row a boat with less than one's full capacity.
- To spank with a paddle.
- To pat or stroke amorously or gently.
- To tread upon; to trample.
- To walk or dabble playfully in shallow water, especially at the seaside.
- To toddle.
- To toy or caress using hands or fingers.
- Spanked with a paddle, e.g. in corporal punishment.